Your views wanted on nature in Exeter and how we can all support it

Everyone who lives, works in or visits Exeter is being asked to give their views on nature in the city, how we can best protect and support it and how it can thrive in the future.

Together with Devon Wildlife Trust, the University of Exeter, the Met Office and other partners, the council is launching the survey to build a picture of how important nature is and discover the parts of the city it is most cherished.   

The responses provided will help the partners to create a shared vision and action plan for people and nature in Exeter, including biodiversity in our parks, natural and green places, and waterways. 

The survey Wild Exeter – A City for People and Nature is being launched on Monday 2 March and is open for eight weeks. 

It asks questions about the importance of nature and calls on people to share their favourite green and natural places, and waterways in Exeter. 

It also asks what individuals and communities can do to support nature and explores which local environmental issues most concern people. 

Cllr Matt Vizard, Lead Councillor for Climate and Ecological Change and Communities, said: “This is a great opportunity for everyone to tell us what nature means to them in our city, what they love about our green and natural places, and how we can all come together to create a nature rich Exeter for people and biodiversity. 

“By working with some of our key partners we can develop a shared vision and action plan for people and nature in Exeter which is shaped by the people who live, work and visit the city.” 

Penny Mason, Director of Wilder Living at Devon Wildlife Trust, said: “Helping nature to thrive in our towns and cities is vital for nature’s recovery, and for the wellbeing of local people and communities. 

"Devon Wildlife Trust believes that we can all play a role in making where we live, work and learn greener, wilder, and more resilient to climate change. We are excited to be part of this initiative, which we hope will lead to a shared vision for a wilder Exeter and big ambitions to bring nature back to the heart of the city.” 

o Chamberlain, Director of Sustainability at the University of Exeter, said: “Nature is central to the wellbeing of our communities, our climate, and our shared future. 

“At the University of Exeter, we’re proud of our research strengths in nature and climate, and we work with our staff and student community to enhance biodiversity on our campuses and across the city. This survey is a vital step in co‑designing Exeter’s greener future with the people who live, work and study here.” 

To take part in the survey visit the council’s consultation website: Wild Exeter – A city for people and nature

Paper copies of the survey are available from the reception at the Civic Centre, Paris Street, Exeter EX1 1JN. 

Other partners supporting the survey include Devon Climate Emergency, In Exeter, and the National Trust Killerton.